What does it really take to become an engineering manager? It’s not just about solving technical problems; it’s about leading teams, adapting to new challenges, and learning along the way.
From troubleshooting issues to balancing engineering leadership duties, Kamran gives us a look into the rewarding yet challenging world of the engineering management role. Whether you're thinking about stepping into an engineering manager role or just curious about the path, Kamran's story offers real insights and solid advice on navigating this exciting career journey.
My name is Kamran Khan Kirmani, and I am based in Lebanon, TN. I’m currently working as a process engineer at Hormann North America, where I’ve been involved in a variety of engineering projects. I graduated with a master’s in engineering management from Vanderbilt University in Fall 2024.
In my current role, I am responsible for:
As an engineer, my day typically revolves around troubleshooting and solving engineering-related problems, particularly around garage doors. A large part of my workday is spent addressing these issues and collaborating with my team to find solutions. I also devote significant time to SAP tasks, which are crucial to streamlining and optimizing various engineering processes.
For me, the most rewarding part of my engineering management career is knowing that I'm on the path I’ve always aspired to be on. As someone who started from scratch and worked my way up, the journey to becoming an engineering manager has been incredibly fulfilling. The chance to apply the key principles of engineering management that I’ve learned throughout my career, especially in my master’s program, makes me feel like I am achieving my goals and making a tangible impact.
The most challenging part of my career has been the journey to get here. It’s been a long road, starting with odd jobs and putting in years of hard work to get to a position where I could take on leadership in an engineering manager role. It’s not easy, but when I look back, I feel immense pride knowing that my hard work and perseverance have paid off. There are always new challenges, but each success along the way brings me closer to my career goals, and that’s what keeps me motivated.
I would highly recommend enrolling in Vanderbilt’s online master’s in engineering management program. The program provides an exceptional foundation for anyone looking to advance in the field of engineering. It has shaped my career in ways I never imagined, helping me to not only refine my technical skills but also develop leadership and management abilities.
The learning and experiences you’ll get through this program will undoubtedly put you on the right path toward preparing you for engineering manager roles and responsibilities, achieving your career goals in engineering management.
Kamran’s journey is a testament to the power of hard work, perseverance, and the strategic application of engineering management principles. Whether you're considering a career in engineering or engineering management, his story highlights the potential rewards that come from pursuing an advanced degree and embracing leadership in a technical field.
If you're aiming to take the next step in your engineering career, programs like Vanderbilt’s master’s in engineering management can provide the foundation to make that happen.
To learn more about how to elevate your engineering leadership, download our guide: Developing Your Engineering Expertise: Earning Your Master’s in Engineering Management Online From Vanderbilt University.